Ready for Youth Lacrosse Season. 15 Essential Gear Items for Youth Lacrosse: Prepare for the Season

What gear do youth lacrosse players need. How to choose the right lacrosse stick. Why is proper protective equipment crucial for youth lacrosse. Which cleats are best for young lacrosse players. How to ensure a proper fit for lacrosse helmets.

Table of Contents

Selecting the Perfect Lacrosse Stick for Young Players

The cornerstone of any lacrosse player’s kit is undoubtedly the stick. For youth players, choosing the right lacrosse stick is crucial for skill development and enjoyment of the game. Composite sticks are generally preferred over wooden ones for beginners due to their durability and forgiving nature.

When selecting a stick, size matters. The ideal length should fall between the player’s chest and mouth when standing upright. This ensures proper control and range of motion. Youth sticks are typically sized based on age and playing position, so it’s essential to consult manufacturer guidelines.

Are you wondering which brands to consider for your young player’s first stick? STX, Maverik, and Warrior are reputable options known for their quality youth lacrosse sticks. Remember to invest in a stick bag as well to protect the equipment during transport.

Protective Headgear: Choosing the Right Helmet for Safety

Safety should always be the top priority in youth sports, and lacrosse is no exception. A properly fitted helmet is non-negotiable for young lacrosse players. It’s crucial to select a helmet specifically designed for lacrosse, as the sport requires more flexibility than other contact sports like football.

How can you ensure the helmet fits correctly? The fit should be snug with the chinstrap fastened, allowing only enough space for one finger between the strap and chin. Regular visual inspections for cracks and annual reconditioning are essential maintenance practices.

For those seeking a reliable starter helmet, the Cascade CPV-R is a popular choice often recommended or required by many youth leagues. This model offers excellent protection while maintaining the necessary flexibility for the fast-paced nature of lacrosse.

Essential Protective Gear: Gloves, Arm Pads, and Shoulder Pads

Protective gear plays a vital role in keeping young lacrosse players safe on the field. Padded gloves are essential for absorbing impacts from checks and errant passes. Look for gloves with ample padding on the fingers, back of the hand, and thumb. Brands like Brine, Maverik, STX, and Warrior offer quality youth lacrosse gloves with proper padding and adjustable wrist closures.

While arm pads may be optional in some youth leagues, they are highly recommended for all players. These pads help prevent bruises from slashes and checks, extending from above the elbow to just below the shoulder. STX, Maverik, and Brine produce lightweight, breathable options that provide protection without restricting movement.

Shoulder pads are typically required by most youth lacrosse leagues. They offer crucial protection during collisions and checks. For beginners, focus on basic sets that provide adequate protection without limiting range of motion. Adjustable pads, like those offered by STX, are ideal for growing children.

Footwear for the Field: Choosing the Right Cleats

As young players progress in their lacrosse journey, proper footwear becomes increasingly important. While very young players may start with athletic shoes, cleats are usually required for players aged 7-8 and older. But what should you look for in youth lacrosse cleats?

The ideal cleats for youth lacrosse feature rubber soles and multiple front cleats. This configuration provides the necessary traction for scooping, pivoting, and dodging – essential movements in lacrosse. It’s important to note that metal baseball or football cleats with a single front toe cleat don’t offer sufficient stability for lacrosse.

Which brands offer suitable options for young lacrosse players? Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, and Warrior all produce versatile youth lacrosse cleats. Some coaches and leagues may allow removable cleats, which can be advantageous for adapting to different playing surfaces like turf or natural grass.

Oral Protection: The Importance of Mouthguards in Youth Lacrosse

Mouthguards are a critical piece of protective equipment in youth lacrosse, serving dual purposes of protecting teeth and reducing the risk of concussions by absorbing shock. Unlike in some other sports, youth lacrosse typically requires mouthguards with a strap that connects to the facemask, ensuring it stays securely in place during play.

While custom-fitted guards from a dentist offer the best protection and comfort, there are also more affordable self-fit options available. Brands like Shock Doctor, SISU, and STX produce quality mouthguards for youth players. Regardless of the type chosen, proper molding to the player’s teeth is crucial for effectiveness.

Gender-Specific Protection: Cups and Goggles

For male players, wearing a protective cup is non-negotiable at all levels of play. Look for cups integrated into compression shorts or athletic supporters with straps to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. Brands like Shock Doctor and McDavid offer size-specific options for youth players.

In some youth leagues, goggles may be allowed for players who wear glasses or as an alternative to a cage face mask. It’s crucial to choose goggles specifically designed for lacrosse, not other sports like swimming. Proper lacrosse goggles should provide adequate protection around the eyes without limiting peripheral vision. Cascade, Shock Doctor, and STX are reputable brands offering quality youth lacrosse goggle options.

Practice Gear: Uniforms and Training Equipment

Having dedicated practice gear helps preserve game-day equipment and ensures players are properly outfitted for training sessions. A basic practice uniform typically includes lacrosse breezers – youth lacrosse pants with built-in knee and thigh pads – and a reversible practice pinnie worn over a t-shirt.

Beyond the uniform, what additional equipment can enhance practice sessions? Consider investing in a rebounder for solo practice, agility ladders for footwork drills, and a selection of practice balls. These tools can help young players develop their skills outside of team practices.

Training Aids for Skill Development

Rebounder for solo passing and catching practice
Agility ladder for improving footwork and speed
Practice balls in various colors for different drills
Pop-up goals for shooting practice
Weighted training stick for strength building

Incorporating these training aids into regular practice routines can significantly boost a young player’s skill development and overall performance on the field.

Hydration and Nutrition: Fueling Young Athletes

While not technically “gear,” proper hydration and nutrition are crucial for young lacrosse players’ performance and safety. Investing in a durable water bottle and encouraging regular hydration during practices and games is essential. Some players may also benefit from sports drinks to replenish electrolytes during intense activities.

How can parents ensure their young athletes are properly fueled for lacrosse? Focus on balanced meals with a mix of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Pre-game snacks like fruit, granola bars, or trail mix can provide quick energy. Post-game, prioritize foods that aid in recovery, such as chocolate milk, bananas, or protein-rich snacks.

Nutrition Tips for Young Lacrosse Players

Emphasize whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in daily meals
Include lean proteins like chicken, fish, or beans for muscle recovery
Encourage regular hydration throughout the day, not just during practice
Provide healthy snacks for quick energy before and after games
Limit sugary drinks and processed foods that can hinder performance

By prioritizing proper nutrition and hydration alongside quality equipment, parents can help set their young lacrosse players up for success both on and off the field.

Maintenance and Care: Extending the Life of Lacrosse Gear

Investing in quality lacrosse gear is just the first step; proper maintenance is key to ensuring longevity and continued performance. Regular cleaning and inspection of equipment can prevent premature wear and tear, saving money in the long run.

How should lacrosse sticks be maintained? Wooden sticks may require occasional oiling to prevent cracking, while composite sticks should be checked for loose screws or damage to the head. Strings and mesh should be replaced as needed to maintain proper pocket depth and ball control.

Protective gear like helmets, pads, and gloves should be cleaned regularly to prevent odor and bacteria buildup. Most items can be wiped down with mild soap and water, then air-dried. Avoid using harsh chemicals or machine washing, as this can degrade the protective materials.

Equipment Maintenance Checklist

Inspect stick head and shaft for cracks or damage before each use
Check and tighten all screws on composite sticks monthly
Clean protective gear after each use to prevent odor and bacteria
Examine helmet for any cracks or worn padding regularly
Replace mouthguards at the start of each season or if they show signs of wear
Store equipment in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew

By following these maintenance tips, parents can help ensure their child’s lacrosse gear remains in top condition throughout the season and beyond.

Budget-Friendly Options: Balancing Quality and Cost

Outfitting a young lacrosse player with all the necessary gear can be a significant investment. However, there are ways to balance quality and cost without compromising safety or performance. How can parents equip their children for lacrosse without breaking the bank?

One option is to look for package deals that include multiple pieces of equipment at a discounted rate. Many sporting goods stores and online retailers offer starter kits for youth lacrosse players that include essentials like a stick, gloves, and protective pads.

Another cost-saving strategy is to purchase gently used equipment. Many families sell outgrown gear in excellent condition at a fraction of the original price. Local sports consignment shops, online marketplaces, and team equipment swaps can be great sources for budget-friendly options.

Tips for Saving on Lacrosse Gear

Prioritize spending on critical safety items like helmets and protective pads
Look for end-of-season sales or clearance events for discounted new equipment
Consider last year’s models, which often offer similar quality at lower prices
Invest in adjustable gear that can grow with your child
Explore rental options for expensive items like goals for home practice

By employing these strategies, parents can ensure their young lacrosse players have the necessary equipment to play safely and enjoyably without overstretching their budget.

Preparing for Game Day: Essential Items Beyond Equipment

While having the right gear is crucial, being fully prepared for game day involves more than just equipment. What additional items should parents and players remember to bring to ensure a smooth and enjoyable lacrosse experience?

First and foremost, don’t forget the game-day uniform, including jersey, shorts, and team socks. Many leagues have specific color requirements, so double-check before heading out. It’s also wise to pack an extra set of clothes for after the game.

Sun protection is often overlooked but extremely important, especially for tournaments or all-day events. Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and a hat or visor can help prevent sunburn and heat-related issues.

Game Day Checklist

Complete uniform (jersey, shorts, team socks)
All required protective gear and equipment
Water bottle and healthy snacks
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
First aid kit with bandages and pain relievers
Extra clothes and towel for after the game
Portable chair or blanket for sideline seating
Team contact list and schedule

By packing these essentials, parents can ensure their young lacrosse players are fully prepared for a successful and enjoyable game day experience.

Lacrosse Stick: Finding the Right Size and Style

Hey lacrosse parents and players! Gearing up for youth lacrosse season? I feel you. As a former college laxer and youth coach, I know firsthand how exciting this time of year is. But let’s be real – getting all the right equipment together can be daunting. Especially when your kiddo is just starting out. Fear not! I’ve got you covered with my top 15 must-have gear essentials to help make sure your little laxer is ready to dominate the field this season.

Lacrosse Stick

The most important piece of equipment is obviously the lacrosse stick. For beginners, go with a composite stick versus a wooden one – they’re more durable and forgiving when your kid is just learning the basics. Make sure the stick is the right length too. It should come up to somewhere between the chest and mouth when standing. Too long and it’ll be tough to control. Too short and it limits range. Youth sticks are sized by age and position, so check manufacturer guidelines. I like STX, Maverik, and Warrior brands for first sticks. And don’t forget a stick bag to transport it safely to and from the field!

Helmet

You definitely want a helmet specifically designed for boys or girls lacrosse – don’t just use a hand-me-down football helmet! Lacrosse requires more flexibility. Make sure the helmet fits snugly with the chinstrap fastened – you should only be able to fit one finger between the strap and chin. Visually inspect it for cracks before each use, and get it reconditioned once per year. The Cascade CPV-R is a great starter helmet that many youth leagues require or recommend.

Padded Gloves

Gloves help absorb checks from opponents’ sticks and passes from teammates that your kid can’t quite catch cleanly yet. Look for gloves with ample padding on the fingers, back of hand, and thumb. They should have a velcro wrist closure so they can be adjusted to fit just right. Make sure to buy sport-specific youth lacrosse gloves rather than soccer or football gloves which lack adequate padding. Brands like Brine, Maverik, STX, and Warrior all make quality youth lax gloves.

Arm Pads

Optional for some youth levels, but I highly recommend getting arm pads even for beginners. They really help avoid nasty bruises from the occasional slash or check. Look for pads that extend from above the elbow to just below the shoulder. STX, Maverik, and Brine make great lightweight, breathable options that won’t restrict mobility.

Shoulder Pads

Shoulder pads are required by most youth lacrosse leagues. They cushion the blows of those inevitable checks and collisions better than just a jersey! For starters, focus on a basic set that provides protection without limiting range of motion. Avoid bulky football pads. Brands like STX make adjustable pads perfect for growing kids. Make sure they’re snug but not restricting movement.

Cleats

While some very young players may start in athletic shoes, cleats are usually required once kids are 7-8 years old. Look for youth lacrosse cleats with rubber soles and multiple front cleats for traction when scooping, pivoting, and dodging. Metal baseball or football cleats with just a front toe cleat won’t provide enough stability. Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, and Warrior all make versatile options. Ask coaches if removable cleats are allowed, as they can adapt better to turf or natural grass.

Mouthguard

A mouthguard is vital to protect teeth and prevent concussions by absorbing shock. Youth lacrosse usually requires a mouthguard with a strap to connect to the facemask. This keeps it securely in place – no chewing on it like other sports! Custom fitted guards from a dentist provide the best protection and comfort. But less expensive self-fit options from Shock Doctor, SISU and STX work too. Just make sure to mold it properly to your kid’s teeth.

Protective Cup

For boys, wearing a protective cup is an absolute must, no matter what level they’re playing at. Look for a cup integrated into compression shorts or athletic supporter with straps to keep it secure and comfortable. Shock Doctor and McDavid make great options for youth that can be fitted specifically to size. No one wants to learn this lesson the hard way!

Goggles

Some youth leagues allow goggles for players with glasses or in place of a cage face mask. Make sure they’re specifically designed for lacrosse or women’s lacrosse though, not swimming goggles! They should have adequate protection around the eyes without limiting peripheral vision on the field. Brands like Cascade, Shock Doctor, and STX offer solid youth goggle options.

Practice Uniform

Having a dedicated practice uniform helps avoid wearing out game gear and makes sure players are outfitted properly. Start with lacrosse breezers – youth lacrosse pants with built-in knee and thigh pads. Grab a reversible practice pinnie to wear over a t-shirt too. That way coaches can quickly identify teams at practice. Comfort and durability should be priorities over flashy features for practice wear.

Complete Stick

Once a player is ready to advance beyond the basics, consider getting a complete stick so they can string their own stick and really dial in the pocket to their individual style. Complete sticks allow you to customize stringing, whip, pocket shape, etc. Great way to give them more ownership in the lacrosse gear selection process too. Brands like StringKing and Epoch make high quality complete sticks that are very customizable for youth players.

Upgrade Cleats

As players get more experienced, upgrade their cleats to pro-level shoes with advanced features to match their improving footwork. Options like the Nike Vapor Pro, Warrior Burn Pro, and New Balance FreezeLax Pro provide excellent traction and support once they’re ready to take their dodging moves to the next level.

Ankle Braces

As kids grow and put more torque on their ankles dodging and cutting, consider prophylactic ankle braces even if they haven’t suffered a major sprain yet. Brands like Cramer and McDavid make sturdy lax-specific ankle braces that help prevent rolls and injuries while allowing full range of motion. Better safe than sorry!

Stick Bag

Once players start accumulating more gear, upgrade them from a basic stick bag to something roomier that can transport their helmet, pads, multiple sticks, and accessories. Look for bags with ventilation, separate pockets, and durable construction to really protect your investment. Brands like Maverik, STX, and Harrow make lacrosse bags perfect for the young lax rat’s expanding arsenal.

That covers my top gear recommendations to get your little superstar ready for youth lacrosse season! Let me know if you have any other questions – I’m happy to offer more tips from my years of lax experience. Wishing you an amazing upcoming season as you watch your kiddo develop their skills and passion for the fastest game on two feet!

Lacrosse Helmet: Protecting Your Head and Face

Let’s talk lacrosse helmets! As any coach or parent knows, a proper helmet is non-negotiable when it comes to safely gearing up your young athlete for youth lacrosse. With high speed play and physical contact, protecting their head and face area is a top priority.

But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right lid? What features should you look for in a youth lacrosse helmet? And when is it time to recondition or replace it? Not to worry, I’ve got you covered. Stick with me as I walk through everything you need to know about lacrosse helmets!

Sizing

Like any piece of equipment, fit is key with a lacrosse helmet. When worn properly with the chinstrap fastened, you should only be able to slide one finger between the strap and your player’s chin. Any more room than that and the helmet will rattle around and not provide adequate protection. Less room and the strap can dig in uncomfortably.

Helmet sizes are based on head circumference, not age, so always measure your player’s head rather than guessing based on their age. Youth lacrosse helmet sizes generally range from 6 3/4 to 7 3/4. Brands like Cascade and Warrior have online sizing guides to help you dial in the right fit.

Weight

For beginning youth players, a lighter helmet around 2 pounds can help avoid neck fatigue as their muscles build strength. More experienced players may opt for slightly heavier helmets around 2.5 pounds that provide more robust protection. Finding the right balance of comfort and protection is key.

Advanced helmet materials like polycarbonate alloys help maximize protection while minimizing weight. Avoid non-lacrosse specific helmets that weigh much more than lacrosse-designed lids.

Shell Shape

Lacrosse helmets are designed with a more flexible shell shape to allow for a greater range of motion compared to football helmets. At the youth level, opt for a basic helmet shell without extreme ridges or protrusions that could catch on other gear or sticks during play.

Dual density foam or multi-layer padding liners help absorb impact while maintaining a streamlined shell shape. As players advance, they can explore options with more specialized shell designs.

Facemask

Facemasks for youth lacrosse are typically made with thicker titanium alloy or stainless steel rather than basic steel to better withstand checks. Look for full wrap-around masks with chinstrap connectors and adequate visibility.

Youth facemasks often have thicker bar construction or dual twist flex points for added strength. As players progress, they can upgrade to cadet or even pro-level facemasks for improved vision and dexterity once skills improve.

Ventilation

Proper airflow is crucial to keep players cool and prevent fogging as the action heats up. Youth lacrosse helmets focus on ventilation with multiple ports along the forehead, temples, rear, and chin areas.

Specialized anti-microbial moisture-wicking liner pads help enhance air flow and evaporation. Removable ear pieces also aid ventilation and hearing on the field.

Adjustability

Since growing youth players go through equipment quickly, opt for helmets with adjustable features. Adjustable chin straps, removable liners, and swappable visors extend the life of a helmet as your player grows.

Being able to reposition sides, fins, and straps to tweak fit also helps the helmet grow with your young athlete from season to season.

Recommended Brands

When it comes to youth lacrosse helmets, you can’t go wrong with brands like Cascade, Warrior, Brine, and STX. All make exceptional helmets designed specifically for the needs of young players. I recommend checking out the Cascade CPV-R and Warrior Regulator as great starter helmets.

These helmets offer excellent protection, ventilation, adjustability, and sizing options that accommodate most youth players. As your child improves, you can then look into premium helmet technologies from these trusted brands.

Reconditioning

While a new helmet should be inspected before each use, it’s also a good idea to send it in for professional reconditioning after every season of play. This involves fully inspecting interior padding, exterior shell, facemask, chin strap, and other components for deterioration.

Any damaged parts are replaced and the helmet is then recertified for safety. This extends the life of the helmet and ensures like-new performance season after season. Most helmet manufacturers offer reconditioning services for a reasonable fee.

Replacement

As a general rule of thumb, lacrosse helmets should be replaced after about 3 years of play. The repeated impacts over time can compromise integrity that may not be visible to the naked eye. You don’t want to take any chances with safety.

Also replace immediately if the helmet sustains a major direct impact, even if no exterior damage is visible. The foam and components may have compressed beyond their ability to rebound and absorb additional impacts.

While proper protective lacrosse gear carries a cost up front, remember that your child’s safety and enjoyment of the sport is priceless. So take the time to research the right helmet sizing, fit, brand, and features for your youth player’s age and skill level. Their head will thank you!

Lacrosse Gloves: Cradling and Protecting Your Hands

Alright parents and players, time to talk lacrosse gloves! An often overlooked piece of gear, gloves are crucial for absorbing checks and cradling confidently as young athletes develop their skills. Let’s dive into the key features to prioritize when selecting the right pair of lax gloves for your kid!

Padding

Padding is the name of the game when it comes to lacrosse gloves. Look for ample padding zones across the fingers, knuckles, backs of hands, and wrists to protect against checks from all angles. Thicker padding over the thumb and palm boosts durability for cradling.

Youth gloves typically use dense foam or removable inserts to allow for adjustable padding as needed. Advanced gloves may incorporate added protection like thermoplastic polyurethane caps or polyethylene plates over vulnerable areas.

Breathability

Lacrosse is a hot, fast-paced game, so breathable gloves help hands stay cool and sweat-free. Synthetic leather palms with mesh backs or full flex mesh constructions maximize airflow. Some gloves also incorporate vent holes specifically for ventilation.

Moisture wicking liner fabrics help pull sweat away from the skin too. Caution that full leather gloves can get very hot for youth players.

Flexibility

Dexterity is key for handling the stick, so soft, flexible materials allow youth players’ hands to move naturally. Pre-curved finger constructions lined with lycra or spandex ensure maximum flexibility from the get-go.

Articulated padding segments, two-piece or four-piece palms, and gussets between the fingers also maintain a full range of motion for catching and throwing.

Adjustability

The ability to tweak glove fit is important as kids grow. Features like velcro wrist straps, multiple palm sizes, and removable padding inserts allow gloves to adapt season after season. This optimizes protection while getting the most mileage out of each pair.

Slide loops on the palms accommodate growth spurts too. Super handy for quickly tightening loose gloves mid-game without having to remove them.

Durability

Youth lax gloves take a beating, so pick a sturdy pair built to last. Tough synthetic leather palms withstand wear and tear in the cradle. Double stitching around seams and fingertips adds reinforcement at key stress points.

Look for gloves made with abrasion-resistant fabrics engineered for the rigors of lacrosse. However, steer clear of stiff, heavy-duty gloves that could restrict motion.

Wrist Protection

Extra protection at the wrist is important for young players learning proper checking technique. Extended cuffs with adjustable closures secure the gloves firmly in place. Internal plastic guards or foam padding add impact absorption along the wrist bones.

Just take care that any wrist protection doesn’t limit mobility or flexibility during play. Finding the right balance is key.

Recommended Brands

When shopping for youth lacrosse gloves, you can count on brands like Warrior, Maverik, STX, and Brine. These specialists offer a wide range of padded gloves sized and constructed specifically for young athletes.

Within their glove lineups, look for models catering to beginners that emphasize flexibility, ventilation, and adjustability. Then upgrade to higher-end gloves as skills progress and more protection becomes necessary.

It’s also a good idea to try gloves on in person when possible to assess fit. An ideal glove conforms snugly to the hand without restricting movement or circulation.

Care Tips

Help gloves last longer by caring for them properly:
– Allow gloves to fully air dry after games to prevent mildew buildup
– Spot clean pads and wipe leather regularly
– Periodically use leather conditioner to maintain suppleness
– Check stitching and secure any loose threads
– Replace worn palm linings when grip deteriorates

Taking the time to dial in well-fitting lacrosse gloves sets your young athlete up for success all season long. With the right blend of flexibility, protection, and adjustability, their hands and confidence will keep getting stronger game after game!

Lacrosse Shoulder Pads: Protecting Collarbones and Shoulders

Alright parents, let’s talk lacrosse shoulder pads! Required protective gear for youth players, proper shoulder pads are crucial for keeping those fragile collarbones and shoulders safe from checks and collisions out on the field.

But with such a variety of styles and features available, how do you select the right set of shoulder pads for your young athlete? Let’s break it down!

Adjustability

Look for shoulder pads engineered with adjustments to accommodate growing kids from season to season. Features like removable pads, velcro straps, and elongated sizing adjusters help tune the fit.

Adjustable shoulder caps that slide up and down give flexibility for proper pad placement as kids grow taller. Pads that adapt to changing bodies protect your investment.

Range of Motion

Mobility is key in lacrosse, so opt for lightweight shoulder pads that won’t restrain movement. Streamlined designs with flexible joints mirror the dynamics of a youth player’s body.

Higher armhole cuts and articulated padding segments ensure full arm rotation for cradling, passing, and shooting without impediment.

Breathability

Breathable shoulder pads help young athletes stay cool during intense games and practices. Look for pads with ventilated foam segments, mesh backing, and/or integrated air channels to boost airflow.

Moisture-wicking liner fabrics also draw sweat off the body and towards ventilation ports for quicker evaporation and drying.

Padding

Padding is obviously essential, but avoid bulky football pads in favor of streamlined, multi-layer padding engineered specifically for lacrosse. Flexible foam with dense core impacts absorb checks without limiting mobility.

Make sure to prioritize padding across the sternum, collar bones, shoulders, and back/spine for maximum protection of vulnerable areas.

Straps

Proper strap systems secure pads in place for comfort and safety. Look for 2-strap or anchor harness systems with durable elastic or adjustable webbing straps.

Straps joining in back with a centralized clip or buckle make donning and doffing straightforward. Chest straps stabilize pads against shifting during play.

Recommended Brands

When it comes to lacrosse-specific youth shoulder pads, leading brands include STX, Maverik, Warrior, and Brine. Look for basic, flexible, breathable pads from them catering to young beginners first stepping on the field.

Then later you can move into more advanced pads with higher-end materials and customizable protection as skills progress and checking becomes more intense.

Position-Specific Pads

As players get older, some opt for shoulder pads tailored to their position for enhanced performance. For example:

Goalies prioritize maximum chest protection.
Defenders want lightweight pads for fast footwork and throwing checks.
Midfielders need maximum mobility and ventilation.
Attackmen balance protection and dexterity when dodging and shooting.

No matter the position though, proper fit and comfort should always be top of mind when selecting youth shoulder pads for your young superstar!

While shoulder pads carry an added cost, they provide invaluable protection for vulnerable bones as kids develop on the field. Taking the time to find the right pair provides peace of mind so your child can play safe and have fun out there!

Lacrosse Arm Pads: Shielding Forearms From Checks

Hey parents and players, let’s talk lacrosse arm pads! While not always required gear, I highly recommend arm pads even for entry-level youth players to help protect those fragile forearms and elbows from slashes and checks.

But with so many options, how do you choose the right arm pads? Let’s break down the key features to look for in this underrated piece of protective lacrosse gear!

Padding Coverage

First and foremost, youth arm pads need to actually cover and pad vulnerable zones exposed to checks. Look for pads extending from 2-3 inches above the elbow down to just below the wrist.

Full wraparound designs provide 360 degrees of padding coverage around the entire forearm without gaps or weak points in protection.

Padding Thickness

Padding across the forearm and elbow should be thick enough to absorb impacts without being overly bulky. Multi-layer foam pads with dense impact cores offer robust protection without sacrificing mobility.

Extended wrist wraps and elbow caps add extra shielding for those fragile joint areas. Just ensure any caps won’t dig into the elbow when fully extended.

Lightweight Construction

Lacrosse requires constant movement, so ultra-light pads avoid wearing players down unnecessarily. Look for pads weighing 15 ounces or less for breathable protection that moves with players on the field.

Thin yet rigid shields along the forearm backed by flexible interior foam inserts optimize low-profile protection.

Moisture Wicking

Arm pad liners constructed from moisture-wicking, anti-microbial fabrics keep arms cool, sweat-free and odor-resistant for full games. Mesh ventilation zones enhance airflow as well.

Some pads feature removable/washable liner sleeves for easy cleaning after hot, sweaty practices and games.

Adjustability

Adjustable arm pads extend usefulness as youth players grow. Look for straps and cinches that provide a secure fit dialed to your player’s arm size.

Arm pads that tighten firmly over or attach to gloves maintain protection through constant motion during play.

Recommended Brands

For youth lacrosse arm pads, I recommend brands like Maverik, STX, Brine, and Warrior. Their pads offer lightweight, breathable protection specifically constructed for the fast-paced needs of young athletes.

Within their lineups, focus on basic pads catering to beginners first developing on the field. Then you can explore more advanced pads as your player’s skills and physicality progresses.

The right arm pads bolster confidence in new players learning proper stick skills by shielding arms from errant checks as they develop.

Pair With Shoulder Pads

When worn together, arm pads and shoulder pads integrate into a complete protective system covering the upper body.

Look for pads from the same brand engineered to complement each other’s fit, protection zones, strap systems, and ventilation for optimized comfort and safety.

Layered together, they provide full coverage so players can fully focus on the game versus worrying about incoming checks.

While an extra piece of equipment, lacrosse-specific arm pads are well worth it to help young athletes stay protected as they discover their love for this fast-paced sport!

Lacrosse Cleats: Gaining Traction on the Field

Time to talk lacrosse cleats! Proper footwear is essential for young athletes to maintain traction and excel in this fast-paced, cutting sport. But with so many options, how do you select the right cleats?

Let’s dig into the key features to prioritize when choosing lacrosse cleats for your young superstar!

Cleat Configuration

Lacrosse requires more agile footwork than sports like football and baseball. Look for cleats with multiple smaller front cleats for superior traction when scooping, pivoting, dodging, and changing direction.

At least four cleats under the ball of the foot work best, combined with rear cleats anchoring the heels. Avoid single front cleat toe designs made for linear speed.

Cleat Material

For youth lacrosse, prioritize rubber cleats over metal options. Rubber provides sufficient grip for most play levels but releases from turf easier when cutting to help prevent knee injuries.

Rubber cleats are also allowed on more playing surfaces versus metal. Some styles incorporate strategically placed TPU cleats for added traction only where needed.

Outsole Shape

Lacrosse cleat outsoles differ from other sports with more specialized shapes catered to game movements. A wider forefoot and toe spring design allows better push off when sprinting downfield.

Forefoot flex grooves and shock-absorbing heels maximize mobility for quick cuts, jumps and rapid direction changes.